Here in Reston and Northern VA, we’re no strangers to harsh weather, freezing temps, and strong winds in the wintertime. And in the spring and summer, we can face rain and thunderstorms. So, what’s a chimney to do when the weather isn’t cooperating? Well, if it’s regularly maintained, it should hopefully stand strong throughout it all.
Which leads to the big question… how often should homeowners in this area be getting their chimney serviced?
Here at Winston’s, we – along with the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – recommend scheduling annual inspections and sweepings to ensure efficient and safer functioning.
Why Invest in Annual Chimney & Fireplace Maintenance?
So, now that the first question is answered, the second is usually… why? For many, they’ll note that nothing seems to be wrong with their system, and it has been running just fine for years already, so… is annual professional servicing really all that important?
The short answer? Yes.
A big reason for this is that, even if damage isn’t very obvious, it still could be present and hidden within your system. That’s why we use camera equipment during our level 2 inspections, ensuring we get an in-depth overview of every inch of your flue’s interior. This will give us the chance to catch issues (and correct them) early on, while they’re still minor.
In addition, annual inspections give us the opportunity to catch and remove any buildup, whether this is in the form of creosote or in the form of outside debris – both of which are dangerous and can affect the performance of your system.
Finally, consider the risks involved with using a faulty fireplace or furnace chimney – we’re talking fire hazards, gas leaks, smoke in your home, and more. Is it worth taking any chances? A lot can go wrong in a year, and we’re all about preventing issues while they’re small, rather than waiting until they get bad enough to become hazardous.
To sum up, booking preventive maintenance (like inspections and sweepings) is always going to be the safer and more affordable route in the long run – as opposed to paying thousands to patch up avoidable and potentially dangerous damages. Call us in now, so we can stay on top of it all.
Does My Gas Fireplace Appliance Need Servicing?
Yes, your gas fireplace appliance runs more efficiently, burns cleaner, and requires less maintenance overall…but it still needs annual inspections completed by a professional!
Annual maintenance is crucial to prevent hazards like gas leaks or blockages, maintain fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your fireplace. Professional servicing typically includes inspecting the pilot light, cleaning burners and glass, checking for gas leaks, and ensuring proper venting.
Signs your fireplace needs servicing include difficulty igniting, unusual odors, soot buildup, yellow or uneven flames, or strange noises. Even if everything seems fine, don’t neglect annual inspections for your gas appliance.
What Else Can Winston’s Help Me With?
What other services and products do we offer Reston homeowners? In addition to sweepings, cleanings, and inspections, you can also count on us for the following:
- Fireplace & Insert Installation
- Masonry Repairs
- Tankless Water Heater Installation
- Oil Flue Cleaning
- Chimney Relining
- HeatShield Relining
- Leaky Chimney Repairs
- Chimney Waterproofing Repellent
- Chimney Cap Installation
- Damper Repairs & Installations
- Chimney/Fireplace Odor Troubleshooting
- Gas Line Installation
- Gas Log Installation
Not seeing the service you need? We’ve been in completing chimney and fireplace, wood stove, and furnace vent care for decades, so there’s not much we can’t assist you with. Give us a call, and we’re certain we can set you up with whatever you need to get your system back into tip-top shape.
Why Should I Hire Winston’s Chimney?
Ok. So you understand that booking annual inspections is important, as is staying on top of repairs, sweepings, and any needed replacement parts. That leads us to the final big question of the day… Why hire Winston’s?
- We’re certified with reputable industry organizations like the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the Fireplace Investigation, Research & Education (F.I.R.E.) Service.
- We hold memberships with the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the International Code Council (ICC), ensuring we’re always informed and up-to-date on industry news and advancements – as well as any new training or educational opportunities.
- We care about the communities we serve. Remember that these are all areas we live in, play in, and work in, too, and we want everyone there to be as safe and happy as possible.
- We have decades of hands-on experience, ensuring we definitely know what we’re doing – and can get your system set up right.
- Our reputation precedes us. Just take a look at our online reviews and testimonials, and you’ll see that customers consistently have good things to say about their experiences with our crew.
- We always strive for excellence. This is a priority for us, and it’s something we take seriously. If the job isn’t done right, well… then, the job isn’t done. Your satisfaction is something we guarantee.
Call Us Now or Reach Out Online
Setting up an appointment with us is easy. Simply give us a call at 703-379-5006, or you can fill out our online scheduling form, after which one of our team members will be in touch. We look forward to helping you with all of your chimney, venting, and fireplace needs soon!
